Stopped in at Expressions Ink Tattooing to see how business been treating them. Guy Daniels (owner) was out so talked with Jason Duir about the economy and why he picked this field to study. Jason is an apprentice at the studio. The interview is after the photo.

This is a phone interview later in the day with Guy.

WF. How business going Guy? Have you seen things pick up or slow down?

Guy. It's been steady. Not as busy as last year (at this time) but the phones been ringing. This is our busy seasons so it's good to see. Kind of slid the poker chips in, on investments, so lets hope it continues.

WF. The last time we talked you shared that the studio was a little hesitant to pull the trigger on any spending. This month you say that you went ahead and decided to do so?

Guy. Right, figured you have to spend money to make money and hope for the best. We needed a new computer and also invested in more into advertising.

WF. Is there any advice you could share about running a small business and staying afloat during these challenging times?

Guy. Advice? Careful what you wish for and know when to call it a day. Family, to me, is everything. A person can put in 80 hour weeks and never see the people they are the closest to. Don't be afraid to ask for help either. Wausau businesses seem to really help each other out.

WF. Are you worried about the future?

Guy. Good question. Becki (wife) and I think about this all the time. Feels like we just got off a roller-coaster. One minute up, one minute down. I have a lot more respect for people who are running a small family business. Not that I didn't before, but use to think all business owners were rich. Little did I know the truth. The future can never be predicted. Love what your doing and try to look at customers as the people they are and not on the sale. In this field there's no room for error. You have to be perfect as soon as that needle hits the skin. Some are really scared when they come in. They think a huge biker is going to greet them. The reality shows out there have helped break that. The field has changed so much. This is a big event in most peoples lives. We try to make their experience a good one.

WF. Any advice for anyone who’s thinking about getting a tattoo?

Guy: Take your time and have it done right. Visit different shops and talk to the artists. If people blow you off then find a more professional shop. Ask to see packaged needles and ask questions. At Expressions we try to keep in mind that this is a huge thing for our customers. The little rose is important as the huge back piece. Do it safe and do your research. In Wisconsin all shops, and artists, are licensed. Listen to the advice your artist shares with you about how things may look long term. The skin changes as you get older. Just like everything else. Take your time. Tattoos last longer than most marriages so use your head.

WF. Ever spell a word or name wrong?

Guy. Ha, not yet! Knock on wood. We always have clients spell out, in their own writing, exact spellings. Never have spelled Bob with two o's. Had one fellow who spelled his kids name wrong once. His wife brought him back in by the ear, before his kid seen it. Was easy to fit in another letter because it was an 'i'. He was lucky.

WF. Wish you luck this coming month and thanks for taking the time and sharing with us your story. Green lights and blue skies to you.

Guy. Thanks man. Thank CNN for us. Maybe someone from Atlanta wants a "CNN" tattoo? Bring in that big bus and visit Wausau sometime. A great little city in the heart of Wisconsin.

WF. Will do! You just never know....... Thanks again Guy.

Click here to visit Expressions Ink.

To visit CNN economy tracker click here.

Thanks for stopping by.